GOOD-BYE TO AFRICA
The language familiar to Ali and Sakari is Hausa; though Arabic is the native tongue of the former. However, for the purpose in view, Hausa will not serve, and therefore, in endeavouring to give some of their impressions of this country as closely as possible, I will, in the main, have recourse to their Pidgin English. To give some idea of this curious and amusing African patois, I will, before proceeding to the main subject, cite some expressions that were familiar during the late expedition:
“Wait small,” i.e. Wait a little.
“He live small,” i.e. The meal is not quite ready.
“Time no reach,” i.e. It is not yet the time appointed.
“Excuse me small,” i.e. Please give room to let me pass.
“He no live,” i.e. When someone cannot be found when wanted.
“This day I be black all over,” i.e. In a bad temper. (No reference to colour.)
“Them French be palava people,” i.e. Talkative people.
“Jeasers,” i.e. Scissors.